ABC's of Rosh Hashanah

A handy checklist of everything you need to know for the New Year.

Pre-Rosh Hashanah

A key component of Rosh Hashanah preparation is to ask for forgiveness from anyone we may have wronged during the previous year. To the greatest extent possible, we want to begin the year with a clean slate – and without anyone harboring a grudge against us. Similarly, we should be quick to forgive those who have wronged us.

Many people have the custom of going to the mikveh before Rosh Hashanah after midday. A mikveh, which has the power to purify from certain types of spiritual impurities, can be an important part of the teshuva process.

Some have the custom of visiting a cemetery on the day before Rosh Hashanah and praying at the graves of the righteous. Of course, we do not pray "to" the righteous, but only to God who hears our prayers in the merit of the righteous.

The morning before Rosh Hashanah, we perform "Hatarat Nedarim" – annulling of vows. In Torah terms, saying something as simple as "I refuse to eat candy" can be considered a legal vow. Therefore, before Rosh Hashanah, we annul any vows, whether made intentionally or not. This is done by standing in front of three adult males and asking to be released from one’s vows. The full text can be found in a Siddur or Rosh Hashanah Machzor.

The Festive Meal

During the High Holidays, a round challah is used – symbolizing fullness and completion. After making the "Hamotzi" blessing, it is customary to dip the bread into honey – symbolizing our prayer for a sweet new year.

Then, after the bread has been eaten, take an apple and dip it in honey. Make a blessing on the apple (since "Hamotzi" did not cover the apple) and eat a little bit of the apple. Then say, "May it be Your will, God, to renew us for a good and sweet new year." (OC 583)

Why do we ask for both a "good" AND "sweet" year? Doesn't the word "good" automatically include "sweet?" Judaism teaches that everything happens for the good. It is all part of the Divine will. Even things that may look "bad" in our eyes, are actually "good." So we ask that in addition to good, the year should be a "revealed" good – i.e. one that tastes "sweet" to us.

Symbolic Foods

On Rosh Hashanah, we eat foods that symbolize good things we hope for in the coming year. We contemplate what these foods symbolize, and connect with the Source of all good things. Here is a list from the Talmud of symbolic foods customarily eaten on Rosh Hashanah. (The food and its related meaning are written in capital letters.)

After eating LEEK or CABBAGE, say: "May it be Your will, God, that our enemies be CUT OFF."

After eating BEETS, say: "May it be Your will, God, that our adversaries be REMOVED."

After eating DATES, say: "May it be Your will, God, that our enemies be FINISHED."

After eating GOURD, say: "May it be Your will, God, that the decree of our sentence should be TORN apart, and may our merits be PROCLAIMED before You."

After eating POMEGRANATE, say: "May it be Your will, God, that our merits increase as the seeds of a POMEGRANATE."

After eating the HEAD of a sheep or fish, say: "May it be Your will, God, that we be as the HEAD and not as the tail.

You can also use other foods and make up your own "May it be Your will…" For example, eat a raisin and celery, and ask God in the coming year for a "raise in salary" (raisin celery)!

Rosh Hashanah Prayers

Since there are so many unique prayers on Rosh Hashanah, we use a special prayer book called a "Machzor."

In the "Amidah" and "Kiddush" for Rosh Hashanah, we say the phrase "Yom Teruah." However, if Rosh Hashanah falls on Shabbat, we say "Zichron Teruah" instead. (If one inadvertently said the wrong phrase, he needn't repeat the prayer.)

The supplication "Avinu Malkeinu" should be said on Rosh Hashanah, except when Rosh Hashanah and Shabbat coincide, since supplications are not said on Shabbat. If Rosh Hashanah falls on a Friday, "Avinu Malkeinu" is not said at Mincha.

The curtain on the ark is changed to white.

During the High Holidays, the curtain on the ark is changed to a white one, to symbolize that our "mistakes will be whitened like snow."

The "Amidah" prayer of Musaf contains three special blessings: "Malchiot" (praises to God the King), "Zichronot" (asking God to remember the merits of our Ancestors), and "Shofrot" (the significance of the shofar).

The chazan (cantor) for the High Holidays should not be chosen for his vocal talents alone. Ideally, he should be over 30 years old, God fearing, learned in Torah, humble, and married. Rather than cause strife in the community, a Chazzan under the age of 30 who possesses the other qualifications, may serve.

Since it is a question as to whether the "She'hechianu" blessing should be said on the second day of Rosh Hashanah, the custom is to eat a new fruit or wear a new garment – and say "She'hechianu" upon it.

The Shofar

The shofar used on Rosh Hashanah should be a curved ram's horn, and longer than four inches. It is permitted to use the shofar of an animal not ritually slaughtered.

The minimum Torah obligation is to hear nine blasts. However, given a doubt whether the sound should be a groaning type of cry(Shevarim), or a sobbing weep (Teruah), or a combination (Shevarim-Teruah), we perform all three sounds – each preceded and followed by an unbroken blast, Tekiah. Three of each set results in 30 blasts total, which remove all doubt that the Torah precept has been fulfilled.

The shofar should be blown during the daytime. Everyone should stand, and have the intention that their obligation is being fulfilled.

Before blowing, two blessings are recited: "To hear the sound of the shofar," and "She'hechianu." Once the blessings have been made, one may not speak until the end of the shofar blowing.

A woman may sound the shofar for herself after saying the blessing. (Sefardi women do not say a blessing.) A child who is old enough to be educated regarding mitzvot is required to hear the Shofar.

The shofar is not blown when Rosh Hashanah falls on Shabbat.

During the chazan's repetition of the Musaf "Amidah," an additional 30 blasts are blown in the various combinations.

It is the custom to blow 40 extra blasts at the end of services, bringing the total to 100.

It is customary to prolong the final blast, called "Tekiah Gedolah."

Other Customs

It is customary to greet others with: "L'shana Tova – Ketivah vi-chatima Tova." This means: "For a good year – You should be written and sealed in the good (Book of Life)."

One should try not to sleep or go for idle walks on the day of Rosh Hashanah. (The Arizal permits a nap in the afternoon.)

It is advisable to avoid marital relations, except if Rosh Hashanah falls on the night of the wife's immersion.

If a Bris Milah falls on Rosh Hashanah, it should be performed between the Torah reading and the shofar blowing.

Tashlich

The "Tashlich" prayer is said on the first afternoon of Rosh Hashanah, by a pool of water, preferably with fish in it. This prayer is the symbolic casting away of our mistakes. Surely we do not “rid our sins” by shaking out our pockets – rather the Jewish approach is deep introspection and commitment to change. Indeed, the whole idea of "Tashlich" is partly to commemorate the Midrash that says when Abraham went to the Akeida (binding of Isaac), he crossed through water up to his neck.

If Rosh Hashanah falls out on Shabbat, "Tashlich" takes place on the second day. If "Tashlich" was not said on Rosh Hashanah itself, it may be said anytime during the Ten Days of Teshuva.

Tashlich is said by a pool of water, preferably with fish in it.

Both the body of water and the fish are symbolic. In Talmudic literature, Torah is represented as water. Just as fish can't live without water, so too a Jew can't live without Torah.

Also, the fact that a fish's eyes never close reminds us that, so too, God's eyes (so to speak) never close; He knows of our every move.

This is the text of "Tashlich:"

Who is like You, God, who removes iniquity and overlooks transgression of the remainder of His inheritance. He doesn't remain angry forever because He desires kindness. He will return and He will be merciful to us, and He will conquer our iniquities, and He will cast them into the depths of the seas.

Give truth to Jacob, kindness to Abraham like that you swore to our ancestors from long ago.

From the straits I called upon God, God answered me with expansiveness. God is with me, I will not be afraid, what can man do to me? God is with me to help me, and I will see my foes (annihilated). It is better to take refuge in God than to trust in man. It is better to take refuge in God, that to rely on nobles.

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About the Author

Rabbi Shraga Simmons grew up trekking through snow in Buffalo, New York, enjoying summers as a tour guide at Niagara Falls. He holds a degree in journalism from the University of Texas at Austin, and rabbinic ordination from the Chief Rabbi of Jerusalem. He is the co-founder of Aish.com, and founder of the Torah study site, JewishPathways.com. He is also the co-founder of HonestReporting.com, and author of "David & Goliath", the definitive treatment of media bias against Israel (2012). He lives with his wife and children in the Modi'in region of Israel.

The opinions expressed in the comment section are the personal views of the commenters. Comments are moderated, so please keep it civil.

Visitor Comments: 23

(20)
Anonymous,
October 2, 2016 12:51 PM

It is so valuable to have this web site.

(19)
Anonymous,
September 23, 2014 12:59 PM

Great!

This is GREAT! Thank you so much for posting this!

(18)
ANNA,
September 4, 2013 2:16 AM

May the Divine look upon us all with mercy and forgiveness

Not being born a Jew I chose this path as I felt it to be true, I very suprized tho at how those born as jews are not very welcoming to others. The divine gave you the great responsibility to reach out to others to show the blind and misguided the way but many do not, have you forgotten? Do not let your hearts turn cold when the truth and redemption for others may be only a smile or hello away, many are waiting for just that one act of kindness. A match can start a forest fire can,t it, same principle with people.

(17)
Arlene D.,
September 17, 2012 10:28 PM

I am away from home for the High Holy Days this year and after watching ad listening, I feel ready for the New Year with joy in my hearrt.

(16)
Lynda S. Layton,
September 15, 2012 1:19 PM

Shabbat Shalom, and Thank You, Chaverim!^_^?

Shabbat Shalom, and Thank You, Chaverim!^_^?

(15)
Chandra,
September 14, 2012 10:09 PM

Absolutely love...

I absolutely love the idea of eating foods in connection with prayers especially the Raisens and Celery for a raise in salary! So funny! love it.

(14)
Lewis,
September 9, 2012 1:20 AM

nusach

I am trying to choose a machzor for rosh hashana and yom kippur. how does one decide? is it trial and error?? the cheapest price? The cutest type font? the brand name? I am confused

Stacey,
September 9, 2012 11:57 AM

Machzors -

There are two different Machzors that I would recommend..the first is from artscroll, http://www.artscroll.com/ they have so many different kinds; classic, transliterated, interlinear, big and small sizes. I would recommend the classic. I find it easy to read and since a lot of people use this one you might find it easier to navigate your way through all the prayers. Another option is the new machzor from Rabbi Sacks, although I don't have this, I am sure it is very nice .
http://www.korenpub.com/EN/products/siddur/siddur/9789653013421
You will need two machzors, one for Rosh Hashana and one for Yom Kippur.

RW,
September 21, 2014 4:15 PM

Follow your Nussach

Usually People have an established nussach which they are used to follow for prayers in General (some examples are ashkenazi,sefaradi, Arizal) ; I would say with some confidence that the Machzorim for the High Holidays should belong to the same Nussach one uses the whole year. If you do not have an established Nussach, it would probably be smart to talk to a Rabbi who can guide you on that.

(13)
Carol,
September 8, 2010 3:09 PM

Not sure what to do now

In my town we have a lovely park where there is a small lake and stream where I go and do Tashlich. Unfortunately yesterday a WWII German hand grenade was found in the water so everything was drained, the fish and wild birds were taken away and it will be months before it is back to it's usual self. The grenade was safely detonated.
Now I don't have a place to go.
I might have to do it after Yom Kippur when a friend can take me to a larger park in her car since I don't have one.

Anonymous,
September 20, 2011 7:15 PM

when to do tashlich

You can do tashlich on any day between Rosh Hashana and Hoshana Raba, so going after Yom Kippur is no problem.

(12)
david p,
September 8, 2010 4:00 AM

Am grateful

Thank you for helping me understand more about this holiday.

(11)
Anonymous,
September 6, 2010 9:44 PM

Every time I read this article I learn more. The wonder of appropriate words and information that aid in one's releasing lashon hara in Teshuvah privately to Hashem. Today I was able to recognize how much happier I am and how the tests that have come to me HAVE made be a better person. Thank you for resending this and I hope and pray that everyone benefit from it.

(10)
Sarah,
September 6, 2010 12:06 PM

May I respectfully suggest that when writing such a good and informative article, the different customs of both Ashkenazim and Sefaradim be mentioned?
To (4) Brandie Watson and to (5) cyndie: my hearfelt thanks for taking into consideration your patients' spiritual welfare!

(9)
Anonymous,
September 3, 2010 9:38 PM

I always love more information and this article and many others during this time have been extremely helpful. I love to learn and although feeling sometimes inundated, I still love it. I take a break, relax for awhile and get right back to studying. This new year is going to be great because this last one has been great considering all the blessings and people that have come my way to enhance my growth and studies toward conversion. Thanks to all for everything, and I mean that. Have a happy Shabbat.

(8)
Anonymous,
September 2, 2010 8:08 AM

A GOOD OVERVIEW

i liked that te Arizal permits a nap in the afternoon

(7)
Dothan,
August 19, 2010 2:08 PM

Am inspired..

I think i will make the coming Rosh Hashana the best i can ever have, Last year I had some few guidelines, but this time round, its going to be wonderful. I think this will be very resourceful.

(6)
Anonymous,
August 16, 2010 5:35 AM

Thank you for the information that will make my service more appropriate. Living as I do, by myself, I get to do everything. It is so nice when in an article, more very pertinent information is given. Thanks again.

(5)
cyndie,
September 24, 2008 8:55 PM

Outstanding website

I am a Director of Nursing at an Assisted Living Facilty and not being of the Jewish faith, your information provided about the High Holidays is so informative when dealing with my residents who have Alzheimers continue their traditions and religion.

(4)
Brandie Watson,
September 8, 2007 12:09 PM

A wonderful website! So much knowledge in one place!!

I am an activity coordinator at an assisted living facility for seniors. It is very important to provide residents with spiritual validation. I am not jewish so I have NO IDEA what this faith entails so thank you so much for all of the valuble information displayed on your site. I am looking for all the information I can find so I can provide our residents with quality spiritual services. I am located in wilmington delaware and would appreciate any suggestions or contacts that could be helpful in stimulating our strong faithed jewish residents. Thank you again.

Brandie WatsonActivity and Volunteer CoordinatorSunrise Assisted Living of Wilmington302. 475-9163

(3)
matt,
October 3, 2006 6:41 PM

nice to know

This website is the most perfect website. I dont know every custom but since i've been on this site, i've became more familiar. THANX

(2)
ula,
March 28, 2004 12:00 AM

thanks

aish is very good!it's very important for me that i can read and fun with jews becouse in my country i don't have such posibility.thanks!and good luck! mazelhof

(1)
nadia,
September 22, 2003 12:00 AM

like

I really enjoyed reading this and I'm very glad there is a site like this I can learn from! Thank you!
Nadia

I've been striving to get more into spirituality. But it seems that every time I make some progress, I find myself slipping right back to where I started. I'm getting discouraged and feel like a failure. Can you help?

The Aish Rabbi Replies:

Spiritual slumps are a natural part of spiritual growth. There is a cycle that people go through when at times they feel closer to God and at times more distant. In the words of the Kabbalists, it is "two steps forward and one step back." So although you feel you are slipping, know that this is a natural process. The main thing is to look at your overall progress (over months or years) and be able to see how far you've come!

This is actually God's ingenious way of motivating us further. The sages compare this to teaching a baby how to walk. When the parent is holding on, the baby shrieks with delight and is under the illusion that he knows how to walk. Yet suddenly, when the parent lets go, the child panics, wobbles and may even fall.

At such times when we feel spiritually "down," that is often because God is letting go, giving us the great gift of independence. In some ways, these are the times when we can actually grow the most. For if we can move ourselves just a little bit forward, we truly acquire a level of sanctity that is ours forever.

Here is a practical tool to help pull you out of the doldrums. The Sefer HaChinuch speaks about a great principle in spiritual growth: "The external awakens the internal." This means that although we may not experience immediate feelings of closeness to God, eventually, by continuing to conduct ourselves in such a manner, this physical behavior will have an impact on our spiritual selves and will help us succeed. (A similar idea is discussed by psychologists who say: "Smile and you will feel happy.")

That is the power of Torah commandments. Even if we may not feel like giving charity or praying at this particular moment, by having a "mitzvah" obligation to do so, we are in a framework to become inspired. At that point we can infuse that act of charity or prayer with all the meaning and lift it can provide. But if we'd wait until being inspired, we might be waiting a very long time.

May the Almighty bless you with the clarity to see your progress, and may you do so with joy.

In 1940, a boatload 1,600 Jewish immigrants fleeing Hitler's ovens was denied entry into the port of Haifa; the British deported them to the island of Mauritius. At the time, the British had acceded to Arab demands and restricted Jewish immigration into Palestine. The urgent plight of European Jewry generated an "illegal" immigration movement, but the British were vigilant in denying entry. Some ships, such as the Struma, sunk and their hundreds of passengers killed.

If you seize too much, you are left with nothing. If you take less, you may retain it (Rosh Hashanah 4b).

Sometimes our appetites are insatiable; more accurately, we act as though they were insatiable. The Midrash states that a person may never be satisfied. "If he has one hundred, he wants two hundred. If he gets two hundred, he wants four hundred" (Koheles Rabbah 1:34). How often have we seen people whose insatiable desire for material wealth resulted in their losing everything, much like the gambler whose constant urge to win results in total loss.

People's bodies are finite, and their actual needs are limited. The endless pursuit for more wealth than they can use is nothing more than an elusive belief that they can live forever (Psalms 49:10).

The one part of us which is indeed infinite is our neshamah (soul), which, being of Divine origin, can crave and achieve infinity and eternity, and such craving is characteristic of spiritual growth.

How strange that we tend to give the body much more than it can possibly handle, and the neshamah so much less than it needs!